Author(s): BM Gimhan, AWS Chandana and UT Mayakaduwa

Abstract:
Rugby is a violent, high contact sport with high risk of neck injury from predominantly forceful contact collisions, sudden direction of motion, and limited use of protective gear. In spite of more regulation and training procedures being implemented, neck injuries remain serious risks. This study answers design and evaluation of a cervical spine guard that minimizes risk of injury and preserves player agility and efficiency. Use of biomechanical modeling methods, Hybrid III test models, and in-situ athlete measurements is used in research to determine motion patterns of the neck and injury dynamics of common rugby maneuvers in tackles and dive attempts during tries and sudden direction of motion in movement direction change. Six controlled tests were performed to determine the effectiveness of the device in limiting the neck angular motion, speed, and rate of acceleration in impact. Results of the study revealed that the guard increased cervical stability by reducing the angular acceleration from 1.59 to 1.30 ݑ߰ݑΰݑѰݑ"Ȓ2, the angular speed from 1.03 to 0.96 ݑ߰ݑΰݑѰݑ"Ȓ1, and motion from 0.69 to 0.64 radians. Reductions were observed in athlete feedbacks in straight-line acceleration from 24.5 to between 15 to 21ݑڰݑ"Ȓ2 and rotational to 13-19 ݑ߰ݑΰݑѰݑ"Ȓ2with up to 15.2% less motion causing flexion and extension. To determine whether the device can be used in sports, tests of textiles were performed and based on rules of comfort and air passageway permeability and performance use. Out of three tested specimens of material, the third fiber was ideal and had 189 mm of elastic stretching with full recovery and 1.67 mm thickness with air transmission of 0.00010 ݑš3ݑ"Ȓ1 and moisture dispersal over 18 cm². These properties boost prolonged use and sports apparel compatibility.

DOI: 10.22271/kheljournal.2025.v12.i3e.3816

Pages: 332-340  |  45 Views  21 Downloads

Download Full Article: Click Here